The Sidney Sun-Telegraph - Serving proudly since 1873 as the beautiful Nebraska Panhandle's first newspaper

Local bank sponsors Tree of Lights gift program

With the giving spirit of the holidays in full swing, Security First Bank offers Cheyenne County a way to help those in need through a tradition known as the Tree of Lights.

The tree inside the bank is decorated with stars featuring the names of residents in Sidney Regional Medical Center's Extended Care program, and gift ideas for each person.

Those who wish to brighten up the holidays for the extended care residents simply sign up and pick a star to take off of the tree. Three gift ideas are written on the back of each star, and participants can choose one or all to give to the residents. It is requested that all participants wrap the present and use the star as a name tag.

The Tree of Lights brings immeasurable joy to the Extended Care residents because many do not have family in Sidney.

If any stars remain dangling from branches prior to the party thrown for the residents, Security First Bank purchases them gifts to ensure everyone receives some holiday cheer.

"I am awestruck by the generosity of the community for the residents of the SRMC Extended Care unit. Each year the community really helps share the spirit of the season with the residents," Tamara Beyer said. "Also, the staff at the Extended Care unit is just awesome. They stand ready to assist the residents with anything they might need, such as opening presents, reading cards, packing gifts back up again and then making sure all treasures get to the correct resident's room."

Gifts must be returned and placed under the tree by Dec. 19, before the party at the Extended Care facility the following day.